Today, Wednesday, September 23, we mark the International Day of Sign Languages as part of the International Week of Deaf People.
According to the United Nations, more than 70 million people around the world are deaf. Collectively, they use over 300 different sign languages. Today’s International Day of Sign Languages highlights the importance of promoting and protecting sign language to uphold the human rights of Deaf people and ensure that they can participate fully and equally in society.
As a Deaf person myself, sign language is much more than a means of communication; it is an important part of how I connect with people, express myself, understand information and participate in everyday life. When people communicate with me through sign language, communication becomes clearer, easier and more natural. It removes the frustration that can come when communication depends entirely on spoken language or lip-reading.
Sign language has helped me overcome many communication barriers in my personal, educational, professional and advocacy activities. Whether I am engaging with friends and colleagues, attending meetings, participating in programmes or advocating for the rights of persons with disabilities, having access to sign language gives me the confidence and freedom to communicate effectively. It reminds me that the barrier is often not my deafness, but the lack of accessible communication.
However, not every Deaf person communicates in exactly the same way. Some use sign language, some prefer writing, captions, speech, lip-reading or a combination of different methods. Therefore, instead of assuming how a Deaf person communicates, we should simply ask: “What is your preferred way of communication?” Respecting that choice is a simple but powerful step towards inclusion.
As an advocate for Deaf people and persons with disabilities, I believe that access to sign language should not be treated as a privilege. Deaf children deserve access to education in an environment where they can communicate and learn effectively. Deaf people should have access to interpreters and accessible information in hospitals, government offices, schools, workplaces, courts and other public spaces.
This year’s International Week of Deaf People is also an opportunity to remind governments, institutions, organisations and society that Deaf people have human rights, voices and aspirations. Inclusion means creating an environment where Deaf people are not excluded because of communication barriers. It means recognising sign languages, supporting Deaf communities and ensuring that accessibility is considered in policies and services.
As we celebrate the International Day of Sign Languages and International Week of Deaf People, let us continue to promote understanding, respect and equal opportunities for Deaf people. Let us learn to communicate without barriers, respect different communication preferences and build a society where being Deaf does not limit anyone’s ability to learn, work, lead, participate and contribute. Sign language is not a barrier to communication; when society embraces it, sign language becomes a bridge that connects us all. 🤟
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